Assistant Professor - Performing Arts for Social Justice (FA25-034)

Job Description

Responsibilities

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville is seeking to hire a full-time 9-month, tenure-track Assistant Professor in Performing Arts for Social Justice in the Department of Theater and Dance in the College of Arts and Sciences. This position is part of a hiring cluster for faculty who will contribute significantly to the Black Scholar Experience (BSE). This role is designed to enrich the BSE-a comprehensive academic program aimed at fostering belonging, academic growth, and degree completion for Black students through both curricular and co-curricular engagement. All participating students are assigned to a Scholar Village (SV) or learning community, allowing them to take general education courses together as a cohort, build connections, and establish a collegiate foundation.

The successful candidate will help develop and contribute to the proposed MFA in Performing Arts for Social Justice program, teach introductory and advanced courses in Theatre, Musical Theatre, and Dance, including new sections of THEA 111 - The Dramatic Experience and DANC 111 -The Dance Experience with a focus on Black theatrical and dance traditions. Additional opportunities to direct and / or choreograph faculty productions such as plays, musicals, and dance concerts, as well as teach advanced courses within the department, may become available. The candidate will also support and engage in interdisciplinary collaboration across the College and University.

In their initial year, the assistant professor will teach two courses per semester. On their regular load, they will teach six courses per academic year; at least two courses in BSE and the remaining courses in the home department, though course assignments may shift in later years. They should engage in research and scholarship that advances their field of study. In addition to work in their home departments, service commitments will include working with a team of other BSE faculty and community partners to develop curriculum, and address student needs. Faculty will also provide mentorship to BSE Scholars, guiding them in their academic and professional development.

Minimum Qualifications

A Ph.D. and / or M.F.A. in Theater, Dance, or a related field (ABO candidates considered if degree is completed by start date).

Preferred Qualifications

University-level teaching experience, a commitment to fostering inclusive learning environments, and experience in Black Studies or social justice work.

The position requires a Ph.D. and / or MFA in Theater, Dance or a related field, evidence of teaching experience, and a record of scholarship commensurate with years of academic experience. Applicants who have not completed all degree requirements (ABD) by the beginning of the contract period may be considered for a one-year term interim appointment at the rank of instructor. Applicants must have experience working with diverse student populations and a commitment to supporting the academic success and holistic development of historically underrepresented students. They must also have a commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion in higher education, with a track record of engagement in initiatives related to social justice and inclusive pedagogy.

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville nurtures an open, respectful, and welcoming climate that facilitates learning and work. SIUE is committed to education that explores the historic significance of diversity in order to understand the present and to better enable our community to engage the future. Integral to this commitment, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville strives for a student body and a workforce that is both diverse and inclusive. We strongly encourage candidates from historically underrepresented groups, including women, members of racially minoritized groups, and individuals with disabilities, to apply. For more on our Statement on Diversity, visit

Salary : $58,000 - $63,500